Volunteer Teaching Assistant at a Nursery School

L’endroit est d’une propreté irréprochable l’équipe enseignante est compétente et bienveillante les enfants reçoivent chaque jour une collation le matin et un repas le midi ici en plus d’apprendre les bases on inculte le respect le vivre ensemble l’écologie l’hygiène tout est mis en œuvre pour le bien être des enfants j’ai adoré cette première expérience qui ne sera pas la dernière c’est sur

Volunteering with Familia Moja Day Care and Pre-School in Zanzibar was one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences of my life. For three months, I worked alongside dedicated local teachers supporting children aged 2–6 in both play-based learning and early education. Each day brought something new; from teaching English and creative activities to helping develop the children’s confidence and curiosity through games, music, and dance. The sense of community at Familia Moja was truly special. Despite limited resources, the staff’s warmth and passion created an environment full of laughter, learning, and love. Chichi, Wanu, and Fatima are amazing! So patient, kind, and a real credit to the school- all beautifully coordinated by the lovely Tim, whose support and organisation made everything run so smoothly. And of course Rose and Mama Aneti! Beyond the classroom, the experience allowed me to immerse myself in Zanzibar’s vibrant culture, connect with local families, and gain a deeper understanding of education in developing communities. My time at Familia Moja strengthened my communication skills, adaptability, and appreciation for cultural exchange, lessons I’ll carry with me for life. I would highly recommend volunteering with Familia Moja to anyone who wants to make a genuine difference while learning from an incredible community of teachers and children.

A beautifully run school by true professionals. Children are impeccably behaved with superior knowledge. A caring and compassionate team. I feel so lucky to have been a part of this. Fantastic experience.

We spent many days with Chichi and her team at the school. The newly built school was impeccably clean, the children were happy, well fed and receiving top quality education. We spent time with the children and teachers and observed a happy family experience. One Family it really is.

I spent 2 weeks volunteering with a friend at the Familia Moja Nursery and Day Care school in Zanzibar, and it definitely was one of the most rewarding and life-changing experiences I´ve ever had. From the very first day, we were warmly welcomed by the lovely Tim and Chichi, who made us really feel at home despite being far away! On the first day of school, the teachers of the school welcomed us and we met all of the children, who bonded with us really quickly and had a very positive energy and an inspiring motivation to learn new things everyday! My role involved helping the children and the teachers during their lessons, supporting classroom activities, playing with the children and helping to prepare their meals. Moreover, I had the opportunity to explore the beautiful island of Zanzibar in my free time and immerse myself in the local culture. As a young girl I felt very safe and the local people were very friendly. The Foundation is located near Paje, where there are a lot of restaurants, shops and a breathtaking beach. Overall, I couldn't be more thankful for my time volunteering in Zanzibar. I left with many cherished memories and a strong desire to return in the future! I absolutely recommend this experience.

From the day I arrived at the Foundation to the day I went back home, I could not feel more at home. Everyone treated me like one of their own family members (specially Tim and Chichi, the owners of the foundation). I’m beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to work so closely with these children who welcomed me at school, day by day, with a smile on their faces. Apart from that, it’s important to highlight the conditions of the school, as well as the dormitory. I truly recommend embarking on this little adventure with Familia Moja, a genuine, loyal and transparent organization with really good values.

I can highly recommend this organization! I’ve known the founders for years and I keep coming back to volunteer with them. Everything is very well organized. Chichi, the head teacher, is strict enough to make sure the children really learn, but at the same time she is warm, loving, funny, and teaches every single day with full energy and dedication. You can clearly see how much she loves her profession. The children are absolutely adorable and always so excited to welcome new volunteers. Tim takes care of all the organization around the school and is also deeply committed, putting his whole heart into it. Both of them dedicate themselves completely to helping children who grow up in very poor circumstances, giving them a much better start in life. The school grounds are always clean, which is something the children are taught early on, and the classrooms are decorated with great love and attention to detail. The volunteer rooms are spacious, clean, with private bathrooms and even a fan – you have everything you need. The kitchen is also very clean and well equipped. I have been supporting them for years and will continue to do so because I truly believe they are doing a fantastic job! Every time I’m there, I feel completely at home – they have become like a second family to me in Africa. They are open, kind, communicative, and always ready to help with anything you might need. They also run their own sandwich shop in Paje to support the school financially, and they are doing a great job there as well – every sandwich I tried was delicious. All in all, it’s a wonderful place to volunteer, especially since it’s based in beautiful Zanzibar. I can promise you will have an amazing experience if you decide to visit Familia Moja. I am deeply grateful to both of them for their important and impactful work, which helps brighten the future of so many children. With love from Switzerland, Sana ✌️

I was at Familia Moja for three weeks and it was just fabulous. Had a great time and Chi Chi and Tim are great hosts. Do not hesitate to ask if you need something they will arrange it for you. Also for trips to see the island. The accommodation for volunteers is very nice! I can really recommend the experience, whether you have teaching experience or related education or not. There is always something that can be done. I found it very fulfilling and was very impressed by what they had set up in only two years. The kids are so much fun also.